Beautiful beach in the Philippines

Philippines

Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of the Philippines

The Philippines, an archipelago nation in Southeast Asia, stuns with over 7,100 islands boasting vibrant coral reefs, lush rainforests, and smouldering volcanoes. Dive into turquoise waters teeming with marine life, trek through emerald rice terraces, or conquer majestic peaks. History buffs will revel in Spanish colonial towns and ancient rice terraces, while foodies can indulge in a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Spanish flavours. Filipinos’ infectious warmth and “Mabuhay!” welcome will leave you wanting more.

When to visit

Temp Range

Currency

Min Budget

Dec – May

25 – 35 °C
77 – 95 °F

Philippine Peso (PHP)

$30-50/day

  1. Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of the Philippines
    1. Top Attractions
    2. Map
    3. Transport
    4. Budget
    5. Seasonality and Weather
    6. Must Try Dishes
    7. Language
    8. Top Places in Philippines
    9. Nearby Destinations
    10. Useful Pages

Top Attractions

See below for a selection of the top attractions in the Philippines, review the map to see where these are located to help plan your trip.

Mayon Volcano

Towering at 2,462 meters, Mayon Volcano captivates with its near-perfect symmetrical cone, an active stratovolcano renowned for its majestic beauty. Its slopes, covered in lush vegetation, create a striking contrast against the clear skies, making it an iconic natural wonder in the Philippine archipelago.

Access from – Legazpi City, Albay

Chocolate Hills

Nestled in Bohol, the Chocolate Hills present a surreal landscape of 1,268 conical mounds that turn chocolate-brown during the dry season. These geological formations, scattered across the horizon, create a captivating and whimsical scene, drawing visitors to marvel at nature’s artistic expression in this unique Philippine destination.

Access from – Carmen or Sagbayan, Bohol

Banaue Rice Terraces

Carved into the mountains of Ifugao, the Banaue Rice Terraces are a testament to ancient engineering, showcasing an intricate network of terraced fields. These 2,000-year-old marvels reflect the ingenuity of the Ifugao people, earning recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving cultural heritage and sustainable agricultural practices.

Access from – Manila

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River

Embark on a journey through the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a subterranean wonder in Palawan. This UNESCO-listed site navigates through limestone caves adorned with mesmerizing stalactite and stalagmite formations. As you drift along its mystical waters, the echoing sounds and unique geology create an unforgettable and awe-inspiring underground experience.

Access from – Sabang, Palawan

Twin Lagoon

Coron’s Twin Lagoon, nestled amid towering limestone cliffs, offers a surreal escape. During high tide, a small opening connects two turquoise lagoons, creating a breath-taking natural pool. The crystal-clear waters, surrounded by dramatic karst formations, provide an otherworldly experience, making Twin Lagoon a must-visit gem in Palawan’s archipelago.

Access from – Coron, Palawan

White Beach

Boracay’s White Beach is a tropical haven with fine, powdery sand and pristine turquoise waters. Stretching along the island’s western coast, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant energy. Dotted with resorts, restaurants, and bars, White Beach is a picturesque destination where visitors can unwind, enjoy water activities, and witness stunning sunsets.

Access from – Boracay, Malay

Nacpan Beach

Hidden away in Palawan, Nacpan Beach unfolds as a secluded paradise with a two-mile stretch of golden sand and crystalline waters. Far from the crowds, it offers a tranquil escape where visitors can relax, swim, and enjoy the natural beauty of this pristine coastline surrounded by coconut palms and untouched landscapes.

Access from – El Nido, Palawan

Fort Santiago

Standing proudly within Intramuros, Manila’s historic district, Fort Santiago narrates centuries of Philippine history. Built by Spanish conquistadors, it served various roles, from military fortress to prison. Today, its well-preserved walls, dungeons, and Rizal Shrine honour the nation’s past, making it a cultural landmark with significant historical importance.

Access from – Manila

Taal Volcano

Uncover the allure of Taal Volcano, the world’s smallest active volcano, residing on an island within a lake. The scenic journey to its summit reveals a crater with emerald-green waters. As you witness steam rising from the depths, the breath-taking panorama showcases the harmonious coexistence of nature’s power and beauty in this unique Philippine landscape.

Access from – Tagaytay

Kawasan Falls

Nestled in Cebu’s lush jungles, Kawasan Falls enchants with cascading turquoise waters. A series of tiered falls creates a refreshing oasis, inviting visitors to swim in its cool pools. Surrounded by tropical flora, the falls offer a serene escape, where the soothing sound of rushing water harmonizes with the vibrant greenery, creating a natural paradise.

Access from – Moalboal, Cebu

Kayangan Lake

Located in Coron, Kayangan Lake is a crystal-clear gem surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. As you navigate through the scenic beauty of the lake, the underwater world reveals vibrant coral formations and a diverse array of marine life. Kayangan Lake, often dubbed the cleanest lake in Asia, captivates with its untouched splendour and serene atmosphere.

Access from – Coron, Palawan

Rizal Park

In the heart of Manila, Rizal Park, or Luneta, pays tribute to the national hero, Jose Rizal. Amidst lush greenery and iconic monuments, the park commemorates Rizal’s life and sacrifices. Visitors stroll along the promenade, visit the Rizal Shrine, and witness cultural events, making it a peaceful urban retreat and a symbol of Philippine nationalism.

Access from – Manila

Whale Shark Watching, Oslob

Oslob invites you into the gentle world of whale sharks, where ethically managed encounters provide a chance to witness these majestic creatures up close. Guides ensure responsible interactions, creating an unforgettable experience as you snorkel alongside these gentle giants in the clear waters of Oslob, fostering awareness and conservation of marine biodiversity.

Access from – Oslob, Cebu. Can also be experienced in Donsol, Sorsogon and Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

El-Nido – Coron Expedition

Embark on an unforgettable island-hopping adventure from El Nido to Coron, Philippines. Explore hidden lagoons, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, witness stunning limestone formations, and discover diverse marine life. This expedition promises a breath taking journey through the unparalleled beauty of Palawan’s archipelago, typically lasting 2 or 3 nights.

Access from – El Nido or Coron.

Map

See map of the Philippines to review top attractions. For the best experience save locally to open with google maps/share with your friends to help plan your next adventure! Some locations are hidden behind others, click map to reveal full details:

Transport

The Philippines offers various transport routes for holidaymakers. Domestic flights connect major islands and cities, including Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Ferries and fast crafts link many islands. Long-distance buses serve Luzon, connecting Manila to northern destinations like Banaue and Baguio. In cities, jeepneys and tricycles are common for short distances. Taxis are widely available in urban areas, while ride-hailing apps like Grab provide convenient and reliable transportation options with upfront pricing and cashless payment features.

Budget

Traveling in the Philippines can suit various budgets; budget travellers can manage on $25-$35 per day, covering accommodation, meals, and local transport. Mid-range travellers might spend $50-$70 per day for better hotels and activities. Luxury travel can exceed $120 per day, including upscale accommodation, fine dining, and private tours.

Seasonality and Weather

The Philippines has a tropical climate, so expect it to be warm and humid year-round. Temperatures typically range from the mid 20s to mid 30s °C (about 77–95°F). There can be some variation though, with northern Luzon being slightly cooler than the southern islands. The wet season runs from June to November, bringing higher humidity and occasional typhoons. The dry season, from December to May, is generally considered the best time to visit, with plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures.

Must Try Dishes

Chicken Adobo
Pork Sisig
Lechon

Language

The main language spoken is Filipino. Below are some key phrases (phonetic translation) to get you started. A big smile and a few words can get you a long way!

Top Places in Philippines

Nearby Destinations

Useful Pages

Image Attributions
ImageAuthor, License
Nacpan BeachTuderna, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Fort SantiagoJan HazevoetCC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Kayangan LakeMyles KadusaleCC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Thank you to the authors for allowing their works to be used
↑ Top